tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28579236139369637852024-03-12T19:00:28.418-07:008-BIT RETRO COMPUTINGThe official blog for the 8-Bit Retro Computing Group on Linkedin.com, and Goolge Plus page.MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-79075128116210878192016-05-30T15:34:00.000-07:002016-05-30T15:34:13.622-07:00PBJ C-C Bus: A 3rd party expansion bus for the Radio Shack Color Computer.Today I thought I would share some photos of a unique third party expansion bus and related manuals that acquired some 20 years ago.<br />
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The photos are of the C-C Bus produced by PBJ Inc of New Jersey, and this particular unit was sold by Acorn Computers of Wisconsin.<br />
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I have never connected this expansion bus to any of my CoCo's, so it's state is unknown. I will post updates as I continue with my explorations in retro-computing and get my CoCo systems back up and running.<br />
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Here is a link to an article on various 3rd party expansion buses for the Radio Shack Color Computer:<br />
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<a href="http://www.cocopedia.com/wiki/index.php/Undercolor/850104/Reviews" target="_blank">http://www.cocopedia.com/wiki/index.php/Undercolor/850104/Reviews</a><br />
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<u><b>C-C Bus top view</b></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBanagKTyz0OoERPuxCUtPjs0PLvTJ43wOmaMyoTNko2Oou_Rr46jFaZbMHiwfXBWhS6-mAvp7_WkBz90sZ5ED2JxeGYss1qLtf1q4RU5b7aRP_Z0kitOe008mDM4oXrkGZu4j1W9BAuL/s1600/C-C+Bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBanagKTyz0OoERPuxCUtPjs0PLvTJ43wOmaMyoTNko2Oou_Rr46jFaZbMHiwfXBWhS6-mAvp7_WkBz90sZ5ED2JxeGYss1qLtf1q4RU5b7aRP_Z0kitOe008mDM4oXrkGZu4j1W9BAuL/s640/C-C+Bus.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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<b><u>C-C Bus ID Label</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhke7KKhYNkd1xGXqAL4qrhEspBGKPk4VpE2RC1jSI3TWQOpOHEof1OOvjk0WQce1gVG129YEImAI0BQHjlYmkYIR5Aoi9_Yg3J8o3w6MzAqI7knumbc-QiCQ4QwxJiII8rjwtZN59PZFO2/s1600/C-C+Bus+Label.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhke7KKhYNkd1xGXqAL4qrhEspBGKPk4VpE2RC1jSI3TWQOpOHEof1OOvjk0WQce1gVG129YEImAI0BQHjlYmkYIR5Aoi9_Yg3J8o3w6MzAqI7knumbc-QiCQ4QwxJiII8rjwtZN59PZFO2/s640/C-C+Bus+Label.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>C-C Bus description from the Users Manual</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgf-xJEvB9bEVmuE74e6DG8hYOQnJkm6hyphenhyphen8SzIrKUTm8Hh3pxnMtnXev08B5V_v4e4RUpFTQx86fvCq11AQVjUzDZwKLg3YkUKmHItMhSHFPkdIU3zR1U3FrH1CPOWZXJhtviDcb0xmt6/s1600/C-C+Bus+UM+Text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgf-xJEvB9bEVmuE74e6DG8hYOQnJkm6hyphenhyphen8SzIrKUTm8Hh3pxnMtnXev08B5V_v4e4RUpFTQx86fvCq11AQVjUzDZwKLg3YkUKmHItMhSHFPkdIU3zR1U3FrH1CPOWZXJhtviDcb0xmt6/s640/C-C+Bus+UM+Text.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgf-xJEvB9bEVmuE74e6DG8hYOQnJkm6hyphenhyphen8SzIrKUTm8Hh3pxnMtnXev08B5V_v4e4RUpFTQx86fvCq11AQVjUzDZwKLg3YkUKmHItMhSHFPkdIU3zR1U3FrH1CPOWZXJhtviDcb0xmt6/s1600/C-C+Bus+UM+Text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgf-xJEvB9bEVmuE74e6DG8hYOQnJkm6hyphenhyphen8SzIrKUTm8Hh3pxnMtnXev08B5V_v4e4RUpFTQx86fvCq11AQVjUzDZwKLg3YkUKmHItMhSHFPkdIU3zR1U3FrH1CPOWZXJhtviDcb0xmt6/s1600/C-C+Bus+UM+Text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgf-xJEvB9bEVmuE74e6DG8hYOQnJkm6hyphenhyphen8SzIrKUTm8Hh3pxnMtnXev08B5V_v4e4RUpFTQx86fvCq11AQVjUzDZwKLg3YkUKmHItMhSHFPkdIU3zR1U3FrH1CPOWZXJhtviDcb0xmt6/s1600/C-C+Bus+UM+Text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgf-xJEvB9bEVmuE74e6DG8hYOQnJkm6hyphenhyphen8SzIrKUTm8Hh3pxnMtnXev08B5V_v4e4RUpFTQx86fvCq11AQVjUzDZwKLg3YkUKmHItMhSHFPkdIU3zR1U3FrH1CPOWZXJhtviDcb0xmt6/s1600/C-C+Bus+UM+Text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-52603890313782485042016-05-28T17:47:00.000-07:002016-05-28T17:55:04.215-07:0064KB Radio Shack Color Computer with white full caseOK, so it's been a while since I have posted to this blog, but I am finally making the time to not only post to this blog, but also get back in to the retro-computing hobby.<br />
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Today I started sorting out my collection of Radio Shack Color Computers, and not only did I rediscover the TDP Electronics System 100 I posted about a few posts back, but I also found two white full case Color Computers.<br />
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These are 64KB systems, and unlike the TDP System 100 the case style is the same as the original battleship gray Color Computer 1<br />
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Here's is an image of the first system I came across:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9pJMtOZqr73JfkydrhYMPSBacwKTGWcqi7sP5YpT_bkY-vyO0ad29IfSpma5gzHyktqYjzsdomot7OAMuqaEFyqb0rI4lo8PxEy-Z9DwVm3ripPKYwHUPpe8jlcvNhdmFACBIXKkFss2Q/s1600/White_CoCo_B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9pJMtOZqr73JfkydrhYMPSBacwKTGWcqi7sP5YpT_bkY-vyO0ad29IfSpma5gzHyktqYjzsdomot7OAMuqaEFyqb0rI4lo8PxEy-Z9DwVm3ripPKYwHUPpe8jlcvNhdmFACBIXKkFss2Q/s400/White_CoCo_B.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And here is an image of the second white CoCo. Note the LED next to the label:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyg51_U5_a0ezNktVwx5_yfGwdEt1XeqtbPXAjUg6qIOw-KSYCKahocqqMjQg1pPP5buQkDfoSIZrzwx-bw8lYKYXvJ1n0_89Jdys86HawvH58UUDvDZme5ZGnmgOzygt-Q0RnCDeOsGrK/s1600/White_CoCo_LED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyg51_U5_a0ezNktVwx5_yfGwdEt1XeqtbPXAjUg6qIOw-KSYCKahocqqMjQg1pPP5buQkDfoSIZrzwx-bw8lYKYXvJ1n0_89Jdys86HawvH58UUDvDZme5ZGnmgOzygt-Q0RnCDeOsGrK/s400/White_CoCo_LED.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Eventually I will power these up and play around with them, but the first order of business is to get a CoCo 3 system set up, and start archiving my software.<br />
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Feel free to comment about this or any posts on this blog, and also let me know if you have any suggestions for sites that should be in the sidebar.MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-29860173209083399572013-12-27T14:50:00.000-08:002013-12-27T14:50:32.290-08:00New CoCo book available!<br />
Long time CoCo enthusiast Boisy Pitre and author Bill Loguidice have collaborated on a new book entitled "<b>CoCo: The Colorful History of Tandy's Underdog Computer</b>" which is now available from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/CoCo-Colorful-History-Underdog-Computer/dp/1466592478/" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/coco-boisy-g-pitre/1116363636?ean=9781466592476" target="_blank">Barnes and Noble</a>, and <a href="http://www.crcpress.com/product/isbn/9781466592476" target="_blank">CRC Press</a>.<br />
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I received my copy the day before Christmas, and I am really enjoying the read. Members of Facebook group for the book are also giving high praise to the book and it's authors. You can find the Facebook group by searching for the title.<br />
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There are also several posts about the book on this blog's <a href="https://plus.google.com/115551294702805848092/posts" target="_blank">G+ page</a>, and in the Color Computer G+ community.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQQxteUHE2NL4kZuwoPC2d1BW2HWu4WAq1rdlleKxiL6l4dcJgaqR5zWsVYQ7EP1gPdw3nJh_NC8GRkP6rlbyazEdteBt1LJhH5V13MC47euKG6pYP6-PW_B0BwK4KHSvfH33RtrKBSnjY/s1600/CoCo_Book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQQxteUHE2NL4kZuwoPC2d1BW2HWu4WAq1rdlleKxiL6l4dcJgaqR5zWsVYQ7EP1gPdw3nJh_NC8GRkP6rlbyazEdteBt1LJhH5V13MC47euKG6pYP6-PW_B0BwK4KHSvfH33RtrKBSnjY/s320/CoCo_Book.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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(Image used with permission by Boisy Pitre)</div>
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Though the book chronicles the history of the Tandy Color Computer I believe many retro-computing enthusiasts will enjoy reading the book and appreciate the historical information it provides so check it out. Cheers ~ Jim<br /></div>
<br />MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-32393807782078074142012-06-03T14:45:00.000-07:002012-06-03T14:45:46.337-07:00TDP System 100: A White Radio Shack Color Computer 1Recently while sorting through my collection of Radio Shack Color Computers I came across a beastie that I long forgotten about - a TDP System 100 or the mythical White Color Computer 1.<br />
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Most Color Computer 1s had the Tandy "battleship gray" finish, so white ones are not all that common.<br />
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Here is a link that can provide a little more information - <a href="http://users.digitalindigo.net/~techno/coco.html">http://users.digitalindigo.net/~techno/coco.html</a><br />
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Below are some photos of the beastie:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHwd4YO4z2uIXdDtapeCh_ci8GNa8-pH6oYsaxHK3wa1B7fFnhLVLiFkk97_laMhMrun_1nzCxHJj3WmcvxYKpWq2r52UiVNx_Q_qe3BDys2iLNua369wwkaiza7T6OSRy7lEylr7xCWa/s1600/2012-06-03_13-40-51_880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHwd4YO4z2uIXdDtapeCh_ci8GNa8-pH6oYsaxHK3wa1B7fFnhLVLiFkk97_laMhMrun_1nzCxHJj3WmcvxYKpWq2r52UiVNx_Q_qe3BDys2iLNua369wwkaiza7T6OSRy7lEylr7xCWa/s320/2012-06-03_13-40-51_880.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgul2aGwrebnCcOJxzCS-LPtmzU3aqtqEOjvlpLRG5UTix-ta9O0ZcsLPkWTIrRLabbZ5mOqK6jndNibBySN4HDRaGEy6zFG1xJgsztUW8xHSw7iheNtNkyaRtdTYpDBRWz_8yA5aQ61ZiM/s1600/2012-06-03_13-43-19_216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgul2aGwrebnCcOJxzCS-LPtmzU3aqtqEOjvlpLRG5UTix-ta9O0ZcsLPkWTIrRLabbZ5mOqK6jndNibBySN4HDRaGEy6zFG1xJgsztUW8xHSw7iheNtNkyaRtdTYpDBRWz_8yA5aQ61ZiM/s320/2012-06-03_13-43-19_216.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXD2BX_RQwks6tkCahrXmPPNiFZgxybNHWrmHEfpZNi6MlnxTJynaZ4vXMH2TFtelbXxm0Zk30bKPBwNKbVueQR1uWdKAT9ToVzxrEtTc3BLiHLnRj8y4hAmTsnqbGpZCPmjeF0pAg5x6a/s1600/2012-06-03_13-43-40_54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXD2BX_RQwks6tkCahrXmPPNiFZgxybNHWrmHEfpZNi6MlnxTJynaZ4vXMH2TFtelbXxm0Zk30bKPBwNKbVueQR1uWdKAT9ToVzxrEtTc3BLiHLnRj8y4hAmTsnqbGpZCPmjeF0pAg5x6a/s320/2012-06-03_13-43-40_54.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So it appears that the "Moby Dick" of CoCo 1s does exist ;-)<br />
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BTW, I am still looking for contributors for this blog, so if you are interested in contributing or have news you would like me to post then feel free to drop me a line.<br />
<br />Cheers ~ JimMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-5654465372479105122011-08-23T08:54:00.000-07:002011-08-23T09:05:44.351-07:00Atari Targets Retro CommunityJust a quick note that there was a post on Slashdot recently about Atari issuing a Cease and Desist order against atari2600.org.
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<br />Here is the original post from Slashdot:
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<br /><a href="http://games.slashdot.org/story/11/08/22/1959255/Atari-Targets-Retro-Community-With-Cease-amp-Desist">http://games.slashdot.org/story/11/08/22/1959255/Atari-Targets-Retro-Community-With-Cease-amp-Desist</a>
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<br />And here is the AtariUser article that the Slashdot article referenced:
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<br /><a href="http://atariuser.blogspot.com/2011/08/atari-continues-efforts-to-alienate-and.html">http://atariuser.blogspot.com/2011/08/atari-continues-efforts-to-alienate-and.html</a>
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<br />Please take a moment to read both articles, and feel free to comment here if you wish. This is just ridiculous! Retro-computing fans are the ones that have helped keep the Atari brand alive.
<br />MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-16525390857242307942011-03-20T13:34:00.000-07:002011-03-20T13:36:14.575-07:00Recollectionware: The AMIGO computer (not to be confused with the AMIGA computer)OK, I need some help from the readers of this blog. About the time I was getting out of college (1982) I remember reading an article in one of the computer magazines about a new computer coming out called the AMIG<span style="font-weight: bold;">O</span> (not to be confused with the AMIG<span style="font-weight: bold;">A</span> computer). <br /><br />It was supposed to be a modular systems with a backplane that would allow users to run software from various other computer systems by the use of plug in cards which had different processors on them.<br /><br />For example if you wanted to run TRS-80 software on your AMIGO you would plug in a Z-80 card that not only had the Z-80 processor but also sockets for TRS-80 ROM. There was also supposed to be a 6502 card for the Apple II.<br /><br />I vaguely remember visiting a local store that was supposed to have one, but I cannot remember if there was one at the store of if it was "on order" (read vaporware). <br /><br />Does anyone know if the AMIGO computer was ever built, or if it was just vaporware. If it was built, does anyone have one in there collection and would they be willing to provide a photo I can post on the blog? <br /><br />Drop me a line or leave me a comment if you have any information about this 80's era computer.<br /><br />Cheers,<br /><br />Jim Cox<br />PS: If you are asking what the Hell is "Recollectionware", well it's that memory of some technology from the past that sticks in the back of your mind and not only drives you nuts, but drives your friends and coworkers nuts because you are constantly asking them about it, and their memory is worse than yours.MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-54918977072192331782011-01-17T16:34:00.001-08:002011-01-17T16:59:31.189-08:00Updates, Atari music, videos, and more.<span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" >Yeah, I know it's been a while, I profusely apologize for not posting sooner. <br /><br />I just added a couple new links (Retro Isle, and Retrocomputers) and I am finally catching up with the email.<br /><br />One interesting email I received included a link to a site of music made entirely on Atari XL/XE computers and recorded on an Atari800XL. If 8-Bit music is your thing then check out <a href="http://yerzmyey.i-demo.pl/">YERZMYEY - "XL DIGITAL" (July 2010</a>). I haven't downloaded anything from the site, and the email address of the person who sent me the link is no longer valid, so download at your own risk and if you do be sure to let me know what you think.<br /><br />If you are in to classic retro computing video's then out QLvsJaguar's <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/QLvsJaguar">YouTube Channel</a> for some really great videos.<br /><br />I can always use more news so be sure to keep the emails and links coming, and yes, I promise to post them more promptly.<br /><br />Cheers,<br /><br />Jim Cox<br /><br /></span>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-56383570430383699062010-07-12T17:28:00.000-07:002010-07-12T17:32:08.363-07:001st annual Vintage Computer Festival SouthwestThe notice below was recently posted to the <a href="http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/colorcomputer/" target="_blank">Yahoo ColorComputer Group</a>, and I thought I would repost it here for the benefit of others:<br /><br />"The 1st annual Vintage Computer Festival Southwest will be held August 7th and 8th, in the Rio Grande Ballroom, in the E.H. Hereford University Center, University of Texas, Arlington. The event is sponsored by the Museum of Information Technology at Arlington, the UTA College of Engineering, the UTA Office of Information Technology and Vintage Tech. The VCF is an international event that celebrates the history of computing. There have been VCFs at several locations since 1997."<br /><br />Below are the pertinent URLs:<br /><ul><li>The Museum of Information Technology at Arlington: <a href="http://mit-a.com/" target="_blank">http://mit-a.com/</a></li><li>Vintage Computer Festival: <a href="http://www.vintage.org/" target="_blank">http://www.vintage.org/</a></li></ul>Drop me a line if you have any other vintage computing news or announcements that you would like posted to this blog, and feel free to join the <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groupInvitation?gid=54090" target="_blank">8-Bit Retro Computing Group</a> on Linkedin.comMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-10225872847616528712010-05-12T09:22:00.000-07:002010-05-12T09:33:41.845-07:00Video: IBM 5100 First Portable Computer commercial 1977<br>Well it has been a while since I posted to this blog, so I thought that this classic commercial from <a id="watch-username" class="inline-block" href="http://www.youtube.com/user/MrClassicAds">MrClassicAds</a> would be a great way for me to get the ball rolling again:<br /><br /><object height="405" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6gaNyXWBcsU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6gaNyXWBcsU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="405" width="500"></embed></object><br /><br />I love the line "It weighs about 50 pounds". Now that's a portable, or at least that was the standard back when I graduated from high school.<br /><br />Feel free to comment and if you have any suggestions for links drop me a line, and if you are on Linkedin.com you are welcome to join the <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groupInvitation?gid=54090" target="_blank">8-BIT RETRO COMPUTING</a> Group.<br /><br />Cheers ~ JimMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-18829278797812287702009-11-29T21:24:00.000-08:002009-11-29T21:45:26.549-08:00FORA.tv - Steve Wozniak: How I Invented the Personal Computer<a href="http://fora.tv/">FORA.tv</a> has an excellent video featuring Steve Wozniak.<br /><br />I tried to embedded a 5 minute segment where Woz was talking specifically about the Apple I and II, but for some reason the embedded code kept going the wrong section of the video.<br /><br />So instead I am just going to point you to the 5 minute section <a href="http://fora.tv/2006/09/26/Steve_Wozniak#Steve_Wozniak_Remembers_Building_the_First_Apple">here</a> at FORA.tv<br /><br />Enjoy ~ Jim CoxMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-68559717961911957272009-10-18T09:51:00.000-07:002009-10-18T09:58:08.945-07:00Video: FPGA Tuning C64 SID Jeri EllsworthHere's a video for all you Commodore 64 and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/jeriellsworth">Jeri Ellsworth</a> fans out there:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_7Ze8X9rQdI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_7Ze8X9rQdI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />I need to do some digging around to see what other classic systems and chips are emulated with FPGAs.MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-23014873624863179162009-05-31T12:31:00.000-07:002009-10-18T09:50:30.344-07:00Color Computer Manuals And Books AvailableColor Computer Manuals And Books Available<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Update 10/18/09: All manuals have now been given away.</span><br /><br />I have been doing a little house cleaning, and I have gone through all my Color Computer manuals and books and sorted out all the duplicates. All the manuals and books below are available for the cost of shipping (USPS or UPS, your choice).<br /><br />I want to give back to the CoCo Community, so I would prefer to give these only to those I know from the CoCo list hosted by Maltedmedia, and not to speculators who will just sell the stuff on eBay.<br /><br />If you are not a member of the list, but are in need of these manuals feel free to contact me via the email link in the "Welcome" section, and will can discuss your needs.<br /><br />This list will be updated as items are given away, so check back often to see what is still available ~ Jim<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Color Computer Manuals And Books:</span><br /><ol><li>Getting Started With Color Basic. Radio Shack Catalog Number 26-3191 <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">3 Copies - 1 spoke for</span><br /></li><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Going Ahead With Extended Color Basic. (No Radio Shack Catalog number listed.) Spoken for<br /></li><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Color Computer 3 Basic Quick Reference Guide Spoken for<br /></li><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">TRS-80 Color Computer Operation Manual. Radio Shack Catalog Number 26-3001/3002 Spoken for<br /></li><li>Color Computer Disk System - Owners Manual & Programming Guide. (No Radio Shack Catalog number listed.) <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">3 Copies - 1 spoken for</span></li><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Color Computer 3 Extended Basic. (No Radio Shack Catalog number listed.) Spoken for</li><li>Introducing Your Color Computer 3. (No Radio Shack Catalog number listed.) <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">3 Copies - 1 spoken for</span></li><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Tandy Service Manual - Color Computer 3 NTSC/PAL Version with 512K Exansion RAM Card. Radio Shack Catalog Number 26-3334 - Spoken for<br /></li><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">TRS-80 Color Computer Technical Reference Manual Spoken for</li><li>Direct Connect Modem Pak Operation Manual 26-2228 <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Spoken for</span></li><li>Deluxe RS-232 Program Pak Operation Manual. Radio Shack Catalog Number 26-2226 <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">4 copies - 1 spoken for</span><br /></li><li>DMP-100 Printer Manual. Radio Shack Catalog Number 26-1253</li><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">TRS-80 Color Computer Assembly Language Programming - William Barden Jr. Radio Shack Catalog Number 62-2077 - Spoken for</li><li>Instructions for Presto Painter for the CoCo</li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">OS-9 Specific Manuals And Books:</span><br /><ol><li>The Complete Rainbow Guide To OS-9 ISBN: 0-932471-00-5 <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">2 Copies - 1 spoken for</span><br /></li><li>The Official Basic 09 Tour Guide ISBN: 0-918035-00-7 <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Spoken for</span></li></ol><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">The following is a collection of Radio Shack OS-9 Manuals that have been hole punched and placed in a three ring binder, and will only be offered as a complete set:</span><br /><ul style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><li>Getting Started With OS-9</li><li>OS-9 Commands</li><li>OS-9 Program Development</li><li>OS-9 Technical Information</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">This set has been spoken for.</span><br /></li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Miscellaneous Manuals and Books:</span><br /><ol><li style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">6809 Microcomputer Programming & Interfacing With Experiments ISBN: 0-672-21798-8 Tentatively spoken for.<br /></li><li>Circuit Design Programs For The TRS-80 ISBN: 0-672-21741-4</li><li>Color Computer Graphics - William Barden Jr. Radio Shack Catalog Number 62-2076</li><li>How To Use Your Radio Shack Printer - William Barden Jr. Radio Shack Catalog Number 26-1242</li><li>Motorola MC6809-MC6809E Microprocessor Programming Manual Motorola Catalog Number: M6809PM(AD)</li><li>Technical Manual for the Star Mitronics Gemini-10X Dot Matrix Printer</li><li>C. Itoh Dot Matrix Printer Model 8510A Users Manual</li></ol>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-79641780759664295252009-05-28T21:37:00.000-07:002009-05-28T21:38:34.911-07:00WIRED: Homebrewed CPU Is a Beautiful Mess of WiresIf you ever wondered what it would be like to spin you own 8-Bit CPU then check out "<a href="http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2009/05/homebrewed-cpu/">Homebrewed CPU Is a Beautiful Mess of Wires</a>" from <a href="http://www.wired.com/">WIRED.com</a>.<br /><br />The article details how Steve Chamberlin of Belmont California designed, and wire wrapped his own 8-Bit CPU called the "Big Mess of Wires" or BMOW. The design is similar to the 6502 and the completed project will be on display at the fourth annual <a href="http://makerfaire.com/">Maker Faire</a> this weekend (May 30 - 31, 2009)<br /><br />Take a look at Steves site for more details: <a href="http://www.stevechamberlin.com/cpu/about/">http://www.stevechamberlin.com/cpu/about/</a>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-58250783656342782372009-05-21T23:40:00.000-07:002009-05-21T23:41:42.298-07:00Vintage commercial: Sinclair ZX Spectrum +Here's something for all you Zed fans out there:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IWjPvKBz1TI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IWjPvKBz1TI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Have a great weekend ~ JimMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-65059133029428561852009-04-29T23:49:00.000-07:002009-04-30T00:12:58.779-07:00About that "History of the Internet" video, and something for the Apple II crowdI have received a couple of emails about how the video in the previous post "<a href="http://8-bit-retro-computing.blogspot.com/2009/04/vide-history-of-internet.html">Video: History of the Internet</a>" is a little on the inaccurate side, so I would like to invite those of you who are a little more up on their about the history of the internet than I am to comment at that post, and state what you believe the inaccuracies are. (That's a subtle way of encouraging comments to this blog huh? :)<br /><br />I'll try and do some more research on my own and follow up with another post at a future date, or if someone else want's to submit a more historically accurate article for this blog, I will be happy to post it for them.<br /><br />Remember that this blog is for members of both the <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groupInvitation?gid=54090">8-Bit Retro Computing</a> and <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groupInvitation?gid=85707">Vintage Computing & Computers</a> groups on Linkedin.com, so if you are a member of either of those groups you can submit articles for this blog. I am also open to allowing non-members to submit articles and news, so drop me a line if you have something you would like to add to this blog.<br /><br />Now I haven't done much in the way of adding links or news for the Apple II fans out there, but I do plan to do so in the near future. In the mean time here's a picture I snagged from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sa_steve/3178095914/sizes/m/in/set-72157612221868944/">this site at Flickr</a> that should bring back some memories for you Apple geeks.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDBtRJkR9crR1KxrCCq9KcYNe1wXI3SY7uuStxByyIFM35U3t9sLEhJv4Xlp1B56g1fz6N5S_pCAR4mtDcQks56dX2oz8goSLUU0zvEiP5uKyr6Aw8rzsMOCOSRr696HNycHX29WeCF8l1/s1600-h/apple+II.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 296px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDBtRJkR9crR1KxrCCq9KcYNe1wXI3SY7uuStxByyIFM35U3t9sLEhJv4Xlp1B56g1fz6N5S_pCAR4mtDcQks56dX2oz8goSLUU0zvEiP5uKyr6Aw8rzsMOCOSRr696HNycHX29WeCF8l1/s400/apple+II.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330373400007321122" border="0" /></a>Please feel free to comment, and drop me a line if you have any suggestions, concerns, or corrections for anything posted in this blog. And as always, please let me know of any links I should add to the links list in the sidebar. Cheers ~ Jim CoxMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-32551625393855366242009-04-26T18:21:00.000-07:002009-04-26T18:23:19.371-07:00Recording audio to a floppy diskI came across this article at <a href="http://www.crunchgear.com/">CrunchGear</a> on how to record analog audio on to a floppy disk. It's a pretty good hack, so check out the article: <a href="http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/04/25/video-recording-analog-audio-to-a-floppy-disk/" rel="bookmark" title="Video: Recording analog audio to a floppy disk">Video: Recording analog audio to a floppy disk</a><br /><br />Below is the video that was featured in the article. It was produced by <a href="http://www.fatmanandcircuitgirl.com/groups/fmandcg/">The Fat Man and Circuit Girl</a> which looks like a great site to find some interesting hacks, some using surplus equipment.<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Xpr7B-7BFP4&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Xpr7B-7BFP4&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />The Fat Man and Circuit Girl are <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Sanger">George Sanger</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeri_Ellsworth">Jeri Ellsworth</a> respectively. Jeri is best known for her work on the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C64_Direct-to-TV" title="C64 Direct-to-TV">Commodore 30-in-1 Direct to TV</a>, and she has a YouTube page at: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/jeriellsworth">http://www.youtube.com/user/jeriellsworth</a>. I especially like the video: <strong></strong><strong></strong><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVoamu_Cjn4">CDROM Tray Cup Warmer / Cooler with Over Clocked 8bit CPU's and Peltier Cooler </a><br /><br />Now I know a many of you have lots of surplus stuff lying around, so <a href="http://www.fatmanandcircuitgirl.com/groups/fmandcg/">The Fat Man and Circuit Girl</a> should give you plenty of inspiration to hack away at some of it. Cheers ~ JimMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-35728112880840730672009-04-26T16:56:00.000-07:002009-04-26T17:03:42.567-07:00Video: History of the InternetA friend pointed me to a video on YouTube titled "History of the Internet", and while it is not directly related to 8-Bit retro computing it is still pretty cool, so I thought I would share it with you. Cheers ~ Jim<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/9hIQjrMHTv4&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/9hIQjrMHTv4&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-46622356254916826162009-03-31T22:08:00.000-07:002009-03-31T23:04:13.079-07:00Cool CoCo videos!<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/allenhuffman">Allen Huffman</a> put together this great video of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">18th "Last" CoCoFest</span> that took place last weekend. I have never been to a CoCoFest, so for me this is a great treat because I finally get to see some of the people who I have only known via email or chat.<br /><br />So check out Al's great "<span style="font-weight: bold;">CoCoFest 2009 Teaser</span>" video, and be sure to read his "<a href="http://web.me.com/allenhuffman/CoCoFest/Blog/Entries/2009/4/1_2009_Chicago_CoCoFEST%21_Report.html"><span id=":92" class="hP"><span style="font-weight: bold;">2009 CoCoFest Report</span></span></a>"!<br /><br /><object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2WhG-ZNELZI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2WhG-ZNELZI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object><br /><br />Allen also let me know (and the entire CoCo News Group) about this video montage from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/shubibinman" onmousedown="urchinTracker('/Events/VideoWatch/ChannelNameLink');" class="hLink fn n contributor">shubibinman</a> titled "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Tandy CoCo Tribute</span>" If you are an CoCoNut or an 8-Bit Retro gamer then you should get a blast out of this!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RgchwL7eeiw&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RgchwL7eeiw&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-55970736013417148382009-03-31T13:53:00.000-07:002009-03-31T14:04:32.839-07:00OS News: 8-Bit Game Creator Now Available for OrderI just caught this posting over at <a href="http://osnews.com/">OS News</a>, thought many of you would be interested in it: <a href="http://osnews.com/story/21229/8-Bit_Game_Creator_Now_Available_for_Order">8-Bit Game Creator Now Available for Order</a>.<br /><br />The system is from <a href="http://playpower.org/">Playpower.org</a>, is available from <a href="http://www.makershed.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=MKPP1">MakerShed</a> for $49.99, and comes with:<br /><ul><li>6502 processor, </li><li>Keyboard, and mouse, </li><li>2 game controllers, </li><li>Operating system cartridge - </li><li>RCA cables (NTSC video and stereo audio)</li><li>9 volt power supply<br /></li><li>You can also get an adapter for your NES cartridges<br /></li></ul>At a glance I couldn't see anything about how much memory comes with the system. I did notice that the OS cartridge comes with a GUI in Mandarin Chinese, but fortunately has an DOS prompt in English. Maybe someone will come up with an Englsih version of the GUI in the near future, but then again for me working with a command line is a blast!<br /><br />It looks like a great little system, and if I were current working and not worried about saving my pennies I would consider getting one.<br /><br />Take a look at the <a href="http://playpower.org/">Playpower.org</a> site. I like the organization's philosophy of getting low cost systems into the hands of kids that provide them enough resources to encourage them to explore computing.<br /><br />Feel free to drop me a line or leave a comment if you know more about this system ~ JimMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-65346706439085351152009-03-12T22:53:00.000-07:002009-05-18T21:02:18.785-07:00Amazing video of a large vintage computer collection<span style="font-weight: bold;">Update 05/18/09</span>: Steve just left a comment stating that the Color Computer 1 is not actually black, but it just looks that way due to the lighting ~ Jim<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Original Post</span>:<br /><br />This is just an incredible video of a very large collection of vintage computers and gaming systems. For all you Radio Shack Color Computer collectors take a look at the black Color Computer 1.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KgaQTcFwudk&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KgaQTcFwudk&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Here is the URL for Steve Benway's site: <a href="http://www.benwaysworld.co.uk/">http://www.benwaysworld.co.uk/</a><br /><br />If you have any news or links to add for this blog just drop me a line. Thanks! ~ JimMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-54992815824089160482009-01-29T18:18:00.000-08:002009-01-29T18:22:39.903-08:00Basic Stamp Super Computer!I came across a video on YouTube title "My Basic Stamp Super Computer" and while it's not exactly 8-Bit, it still is cool:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/huukEEwy-3E&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/huukEEwy-3E&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Now this has got me inspired to play with my Basic Stamp kit ~ JimMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-56614439010388235522009-01-04T21:14:00.000-08:002009-01-04T21:32:11.570-08:00New CoCo links, and some cool CoCo videosA friend of mine suggested some CoCo links for me to add to the <span style="font-weight: bold;">CoCo Links ( Tandy Color Computer )</span> list, so I have gone ahead and added them. Check them out when you have the time.<br /><br />My friend also sent me some cool looking CoCo vidoes; two are Radio Shack Commercials, and the other is a video of the Boink Bouncing Ball demo. Here they are:<br /><ul><li>Radio Shack Tandy CoCo 3 Commercial: Merry Christmas HQ: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3dtQ01MFlg" onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><span>http://www.youtube.com/wat</span><wbr><span class="word_break"></span>ch?v=a3dtQ01MFlg</a></li><li>80's Radio Shack Color Computer Commercial: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2jRuh1bAxw" onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><span>http://www.youtube.com/wat</span><wbr><span class="word_break"></span>ch?v=J2jRuh1bAxw</a></li><li>Boink Bouncing Ball demo on CoCo 3: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eonlhPhv01s" onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><span>http://www.youtube.com/wat</span><wbr><span class="word_break"></span>ch?v=eonlhPhv01s</a></li></ul><br />I rcouldn't find much in the way of retro computing news except the Slashdot article below:<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Slashdot</span>: <a href="http://games.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=09/01/03/162226">Apple IIe Emulator Released For the Wii</a></li></ul><br />This blog could use a lot more links, especially for the Apple II, Commodore, and Atari links lists. Feel free to leave a comment with your link suggestions or any leads for articles. You can also send me an email by clicking the "here" link in the "Welcome" section on the left-hand side.<br /><br />PS: I just found this great CoCo posting! Check it out: <a href="http://www.retrocomputing.ca/?p=22" rel="bookmark" title="The Color Computer (a.k.a. CoCo).">The Color Computer (a.k.a. CoCo).</a>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-37514090636601700822008-12-28T22:31:00.000-08:002008-12-28T22:34:51.921-08:008-BRC: Articles of interest 12/28/08I came across a few articles of interest to vintage computer enthusiasts who read this blog. Below you will find links to each article along with a brief note from me. I am still looking for content suggestions, for this blog so drop me a line <a href="mailto:mailto:miba51+8-bitretro@gmail.com">here</a> if you have any suggestions, or leave a comment.<br /><br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.micsaund.com/">micsaund.com</a>: <a href="http://www.micsaund.com/2008/12/25/retro-8-bit-basic-computer-is-a-blast-from-the-past/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link to Retro 8 bit BASIC computer is a blast from the past">Retro 8 bit BASIC computer is a blast from the past</a><br />This is a pretty good article about the <a href="http://www.multilabs.net/Retro.html" target="_blank">Retro Computer System</a> from <a href="http://www.multilabs.net/">Multilabs</a>. For $100.00 the system looks like a great deal. It can handle a standard VGA monitor, PS2 keyboard, Atari style joystick, and comes with a built-in BASIC interpreter and OS plus an expansion port. If your looking for a low cost and versatile system to relive the past with then give the <a href="http://www.multilabs.net/Retro.html" target="_blank">Retro Computer System</a> a look. <br /><br />I plan to get one as soon as I get back to work, and I'd like to know what others think of it. If you happen to have one of these systems then leave a comment or shoot me an <a href="mailto:mailto:miba51+8-bitretro@gmail.com">email</a>, and check out these other articles on <a href="http://www.micsaund.com/">micsaund.com</a>:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.micsaund.com/2007/07/18/build-your-own-classic-computer/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link: Build your own classic computer">Build your own classic computer</a></li><li><a href="http://www.micsaund.com/2007/05/21/phidgets-easy-to-use-usb-circuit-goodies/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link: Phidgets: Easy to use USB circuit goodies">Phidgets: Easy to use USB circuit goodies</a></li><li><a href="http://www.micsaund.com/2006/08/24/develop-your-own-2d-games-retro-or-otherwise/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link: Develop your own 2D games, retro or otherwise">Develop your own 2D games, retro or otherwise</a></li><li><a href="http://www.micsaund.com/2007/02/22/full-custom-computer-case-made-of-stained-glass/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link: Full custom computer case made of stained glass">Full custom computer case made of stained glass</a></li><li><a href="http://www.micsaund.com/2007/01/11/microcontroller-learning-kit-makes-it-easy/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link: Microcontroller learning kit makes it easy">Microcontroller learning kit makes it easy</a></li></ul><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.slashdot.org/">Slashdot.org</a>: <a href="http://games.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=08/12/22/0535242">The Return of (Old) PC Graphic Adventures</a><br />This article is about the <a href="http://www.scummvm.org/">ScummVM</a> virtual machine which according to the article "acts like an interface between the feelings and the puzzles from the good old times and the modern operating systems". I have never heard of ScummVM before, so if you are using it then here's your chance to leave a comment here on the blog. (At least this wans't another Cobol article from Shashdot :-)<br /><br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://techdirt.com/">techdirt.com</a>: <a href="http://techdirt.com/articles/20081215/0106043118.shtml">Old Electronics Kit Manuals Forced Offline Thanks To Copyright</a><br />Well it looks like the Grinch decided to be mean to all the Heathkit enthusiasts in Whoville this year. Heathkit sold the copyright for it's for legacy products manuals, and the new owner is requiring that those manuals taken down from web sites and only be available for purchase from them. Well I am glad I kept the manuals for all the stuff I have.<br /><br /><br />Well that's it for now. Hope everyone has a great New Year! ~ Jim CoxMIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-54961487316932681192008-12-09T22:48:00.000-08:002008-12-19T22:29:49.119-08:00Retro computer gift suggestions.I thought it would be fun to post a list of gifts for retro computer enthusiasts to drool over. <br /><br />Right now I can only find a few items to list, but I will add to the list as I find more stuff, or as group members post suggestions in the forum. Non group members are encouraged post comments to this blog, and I will add their suggestions too. <br /><br />So check out the list below and feel free to post a comment if you want:<br /><ul><li>Classic Computer Calendar. Unfortunately the only one I could find online is this <a href="http://www.digicraft.com.au/calendars/">2006 Classic Computer Calendar</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.kaboodle.com/reviews/commodore-64-c64-retro-computer-t-shirt">Commodore 64 (C64) Retro Computer T-Shirt</a></li><li>Book - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Retro-Evolution-Personal-Computer/dp/tags-on-product/078214330X">Digital Retro: The Evolution and Design of the Personal Computer (Paperback)</a></li><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00063QDNY/ref=sr_1_olp_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1228893248&sr=1-1">Atari Flashback Game System</a></li><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Atari-Flashback-2-0/dp/B00093DHIK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1228893248&sr=1-4">Atari Flashback 2.0</a></li><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jakks-Atari-Classics-10-Games/dp/B0000645DD/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1228893248&sr=1-3">Jakks Atari Classics 10 In 1 TV Games</a></li><li><span id="dnn_ctr570_ProductPage_ProductName"><a href="http://www.parallax.com/Store/Microcontrollers/BASICStampModules/tabid/134/List/1/ProductID/467/Default.aspx?txtSearch=hydra+&SortField=ProductName%2cProductName">HYDRA Game Development Kit</a>: Not a true retro system, but it's close enough.<br /></span></li></ul><br />If you are in the UK, you might be interested in the <a href="http://www.flickbits.com/acatalog/Retro_Computer_Merchandise.html">retro computer merchandise</a> that <a href="http://www.flickbits.com/">flickbits.com</a> has to offer.MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2857923613936963785.post-34664501998209154112008-11-16T17:00:00.000-08:002008-12-19T22:29:49.120-08:00Yet even more news about CobolA while back Slashdot posted another article about Cobol - "<a href="http://developers.slashdot.org/developers/08/10/23/1746254.shtml">Cobol Job Market Heating Up</a>"<br /><br />Seriously is Cobol really that prevalent that there could be a serious need for Cobol programmers?<br /><br />If that's the case then here are a few Cobol related links to help those new to Cobol get going with the newest old craze :)<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.csis.ul.ie%2FCOBOL%2F&ei=1cIgSbnlCpmktQPokdWrCA&usg=AFQjCNG0rM-bJF1nVUAXg4JMN3_wKac8Eg&sig2=HpyWcgtCH9wUQpu0ImohYQ" class="l" onmousedown="return rwt(this,'','','res','1','AFQjCNG0rM-bJF1nVUAXg4JMN3_wKac8Eg','&sig2=HpyWcgtCH9wUQpu0ImohYQ')">COBOL programming - tutorials, lectures, exercises, examples</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.csis.ul.ie%2FCOBOL%2FCourse%2FDefault.htm&ei=1cIgSbnlCpmktQPokdWrCA&usg=AFQjCNHrGnJqMHkDiGhyxZIhyeuGXNvYXg&sig2=xs5BuZoe_0JuECYMvV0aNw" class="l" onmousedown="return rwt(this,'','','res','2','AFQjCNHrGnJqMHkDiGhyxZIhyeuGXNvYXg','&sig2=xs5BuZoe_0JuECYMvV0aNw')">COBOL Programming Course</a></li><li><a href="http://www.engin.umd.umich.edu/CIS/course.des/cis400/cobol/cobol.html" class="l" onmousedown="return rwt(this,'','','res','3','AFQjCNGNm88CQBR6Fso9-nWuqyDNs0wu8g','&sig2=nPfFJTbw-XVH8LBWu7yYmA')">The COBOL Programming Language</a></li><li><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cobol" class="l" onmousedown="return rwt(this,'','','res','5','AFQjCNFvZsXxTMRR_NqwdFwZbu3ZfeUPkw','&sig2=8_rPUp40TwldwTXBLCxcAw')">COBOL - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia</a></li><li><a href="http://www.cobug.com/" class="l" onmousedown="return rwt(this,'','','res','8','AFQjCNGl-7itRY99t9UraDa69VL0Iktp_w','&sig2=g5xoUvZueTulRRNrOPrJ9g')">COBOL Programming, Jobs, Tutorials : COBOL User Groups</a></li><li><a href="http://infogoal.com/cbd/cbdweb.htm" class="l" onmousedown="return rwt(this,'','','res','9','AFQjCNHnqrtpuSwfVOpwNRFc7orn806MZA','&sig2=c_H7JAUdK8m6l2NiDmzGTQ')">COBOL Web Programming : The COBOL Center</a></li></ul>MIBA51http://www.blogger.com/profile/02958808605363839382noreply@blogger.com0